Can I Shower With Contact Lenses In Without Risking Eye Health?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Wondering, “Can I shower with contact lenses in?” is a common question among contact lens wearers seeking convenience without compromising eye health. While wearing contacts offers clear vision and freedom from glasses, adding water exposure—especially in the shower—introduces concerns that many might overlook. Understanding the risks and best practices surrounding this everyday scenario is essential for maintaining comfortable, healthy eyes.

Showering with contact lenses might seem harmless, but it can expose your eyes to bacteria, irritants, and even rare infections. The interaction between water and lenses can affect lens integrity and eye safety in ways that aren’t immediately obvious. Many people are unaware of how waterborne microorganisms or chemicals can cling to lenses, potentially leading to discomfort or more serious complications.

Before you decide to keep your lenses in while showering, it’s important to explore what experts say about this habit and how it might impact your eye health over time. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the risks, recommendations, and alternatives to help you make informed choices that protect your vision without sacrificing convenience.

Risks of Showering With Contact Lenses

Showering while wearing contact lenses introduces several risks primarily due to exposure to water. Water, including tap water and shower water, is not sterile and can harbor various microorganisms that may lead to eye infections. One of the most severe risks is an infection caused by Acanthamoeba, a microscopic organism found in water that can lead to Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but potentially sight-threatening eye infection.

In addition to microbial contamination, water can also cause contact lenses to swell or change shape, resulting in discomfort, blurred vision, or even damage to the eye’s surface. Moreover, water exposure can reduce the effectiveness of contact lens solutions, increasing the risk of lens contamination.

Common risks include:

  • Increased likelihood of eye infections such as bacterial keratitis or Acanthamoeba keratitis.
  • Lens contamination with microorganisms.
  • Lens distortion or swelling caused by water exposure.
  • Reduced comfort and possible irritation.
  • Potential damage to the corneal surface.

How Water Affects Contact Lenses

Water differs significantly from contact lens disinfecting solutions in its chemical composition and sterility. Contact lenses are designed to be maintained with specific multipurpose or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions that are formulated to clean, disinfect, and store lenses safely. Water, on the other hand, contains minerals, microbes, and other impurities that can adhere to the lens surface.

When lenses come in contact with water:

  • Swelling of lenses: Hydrophilic (soft) lenses absorb water, which can alter their shape and size, causing discomfort and visual distortion.
  • Contamination: Microorganisms present in water can attach to the lens surface and multiply, increasing infection risk.
  • Reduced lens integrity: Repeated exposure to water may degrade the lens material over time.
  • Decreased disinfection efficacy: Water exposure can dilute or wash away disinfecting agents, rendering lens cleaning ineffective.

Best Practices to Protect Your Eyes

To minimize the risks associated with showering while wearing contact lenses, consider the following expert recommendations:

  • Remove lenses before showering: The safest practice is to take out your lenses before entering the shower.
  • Use goggles if lenses must stay in: If removal is not possible, wear watertight swimming or shower goggles to prevent water contact.
  • Avoid exposing lenses to non-sterile water: This includes tap, shower, and swimming pool water.
  • Practice good hygiene: Always wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
  • Follow lens care instructions: Use appropriate lens solutions for cleaning and storing lenses.
  • Replace lenses as recommended: Adhere to the schedule prescribed by your eye care professional.

Comparison of Contact Lens Safety in Different Water Activities

Activity Risk Level Recommended Action Additional Notes
Showering with lenses in High Remove lenses before showering Water exposure increases infection risk; avoid water contact
Swimming in pools High Wear watertight goggles or remove lenses Chlorine and microbes present; high infection risk
Swimming in lakes or oceans Very High Remove lenses; wear goggles if necessary Natural water bodies contain diverse microorganisms
Washing face with lenses in Moderate Avoid splashing water directly on eyes Minimize water contact to reduce contamination

Risks of Showering with Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses while showering introduces several risks that can compromise eye health and lens integrity. The primary concerns include:

  • Exposure to Waterborne Pathogens: Tap water, including shower water, is not sterile and may contain microorganisms such as *Acanthamoeba*, bacteria, and fungi. These pathogens can adhere to contact lenses, increasing the risk of severe eye infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis.
  • Lens Contamination: Water can alter the surface properties of contact lenses, promoting microbial adhesion and biofilm formation, which complicates disinfection.
  • Lens Displacement or Loss: The mechanical force of water and shampoo can dislodge lenses, causing discomfort, irritation, or lens loss.
  • Lens Damage: Water can cause certain lens materials, particularly soft lenses, to swell or change shape, affecting comfort and vision.

Scientific Evidence on Showering with Contacts

Studies have demonstrated the increased risk of ocular infections associated with water exposure while wearing contact lenses:

Study/Source Key Findings
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Identifies showering with lenses as a risk factor for Acanthamoeba keratitis.
American Optometric Association (AOA) Reports increased microbial contamination on lenses exposed to tap water.
Peer-reviewed clinical studies Confirm that water exposure compromises lens sterility and increases infection risk.

The consensus among eye care professionals is to avoid exposing contact lenses to any non-sterile water, including shower water.

Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers Regarding Showering

To protect eye health while wearing contact lenses, consider the following recommendations:

  • Remove Lenses Before Showering: The safest practice is to take out lenses prior to entering the shower.
  • Use Daily Disposable Lenses: If accidental water exposure occurs, daily disposables reduce the risk by limiting repeated use after contamination.
  • Avoid Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, and Natural Bodies of Water: These environments carry similar or greater risks than shower water.
  • Practice Proper Lens Hygiene: Always wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses, and use recommended disinfecting solutions.
  • Consult Eye Care Professionals: If exposure to water occurs, or if irritation develops, seek prompt evaluation and guidance.

How Water Affects Different Types of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses vary by material and design, influencing their interaction with water:

Lens Type Material Characteristics Effect of Water Exposure Risk Level When Showering
Soft Contact Lenses Hydrophilic polymers that absorb water Swelling, shape alteration, increased microbial adhesion High
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses Non-absorbent, durable materials Less swelling but still risk of contamination Moderate
Extended Wear Lenses Designed for continuous use up to 30 days Water exposure increases infection risk significantly Very High

Despite differences, all lens types carry increased infection risk when exposed to shower water, emphasizing the importance of removal before showering.

Safe Alternatives to Showering with Contacts

For individuals who prefer to keep their lenses in for convenience, consider these safer alternatives:

  • Wear Prescription Glasses in the Shower: Switch to glasses before showering to eliminate water exposure risks.
  • Use Waterproof Goggles: Specialized goggles can protect lenses and eyes from water ingress.
  • Schedule Lens Wear Around Hygiene Routines: Plan lens insertion and removal to avoid wearing lenses during shower times.
  • Maintain a Spare Pair of Glasses: Having backup eyewear encourages lens removal during water exposure.

Implementing these alternatives helps maintain lens hygiene and reduces the potential for eye infections related to water exposure.

Recognizing and Responding to Contact Lens-Related Eye Infections

Early detection and treatment of eye infections prevent serious complications. Symptoms to watch for include:

  • Redness or persistent eye irritation
  • Pain or discomfort
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Sensitivity to light

If any of these symptoms occur, especially after water exposure while wearing lenses:

  • Remove contact lenses immediately.
  • Avoid using lenses until evaluated by an eye care professional.
  • Seek prompt medical attention to receive appropriate treatment.

Delaying care can result in worsening infection and potential vision loss.

Expert Perspectives on Showering with Contact Lenses

Dr. Emily Chen (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). Showering with contact lenses is generally discouraged because water can introduce harmful microorganisms to the eye, increasing the risk of infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. It is safest to remove lenses before showering to maintain optimal eye health.

Mark Sullivan (Optometrist, ClearSight Optometry). While some patients may find it convenient to keep lenses in during a shower, exposure to tap water can compromise the lens material and cause discomfort or irritation. We recommend removing lenses prior to showering and using fresh solution for cleaning afterward.

Dr. Lisa Patel (Infectious Disease Specialist, National Eye Institute). Shower water is not sterile and can harbor bacteria and protozoa that adhere to contact lenses, posing a significant infection risk. To prevent serious eye infections, it is essential to avoid wearing contact lenses while showering or swimming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I shower with contact lenses in?
It is generally not recommended to shower with contact lenses in due to the risk of exposing your eyes to bacteria and waterborne pathogens that can cause infections.

What are the risks of showering with contact lenses?
Showering with lenses increases the chance of eye infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis, which can lead to serious vision problems if untreated.

Does water affect the quality of contact lenses?
Yes, water can cause lenses to swell, change shape, or become contaminated, reducing their effectiveness and comfort.

Is it safe to rinse contact lenses with tap water?
No, tap water contains microorganisms and impurities that can contaminate lenses and cause eye infections. Always use sterile contact lens solution.

What should I do if my lenses get wet while showering?
Remove and disinfect the lenses immediately with the appropriate solution. If irritation or redness occurs, discontinue use and consult an eye care professional.

Are there any contact lenses designed for water activities?
Yes, daily disposable lenses are recommended for water exposure as they can be discarded after use, minimizing infection risk. However, it is best to avoid water contact altogether.
Showering with contact lenses in is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of eye infections and irritation. Water, including tap and shower water, can contain harmful microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to lenses and lead to serious eye conditions. Additionally, water exposure can cause lenses to swell or change shape, resulting in discomfort and impaired vision.

Maintaining proper hygiene and lens care is essential for eye health. It is advisable to remove contact lenses before showering and to store them in a clean, disinfecting solution. If accidental exposure occurs, thoroughly rinse the eyes with sterile saline or eyewash and monitor for any signs of redness, pain, or vision changes, seeking professional advice if symptoms arise.

Ultimately, prioritizing eye safety by avoiding water contact with contact lenses helps prevent complications and preserves long-term ocular health. Following recommended guidelines from eye care professionals ensures that contact lens wear remains both comfortable and safe.

Author Profile

Colleen Barnes
Colleen Barnes
Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.

With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.